RNC Photos

As you've probably read here and in other places, the atmosphere here in the Twin Cities has been, well, subdued. It simply isn't the same as it was in Denver.

Now before people jump on the "liberal media" about not being pumped up for the GOP convention, let me just say that more than one delegate has said that the feeling of excitement just hasn't been present in Minneapolis and St. Paul (and it doesn't help that this convention is spread out in two cities that are 10 miles apart).

One delegate from Wisconsin told us last night that she was happy to finally get some "red meat" in the form of former Sen. Fred Thompson's speech. But I guess the subdued attitude is expected when you consider the issues in the Gulf Coast over the last few days. The entire convention was shrouded in mystery even as far back as last Friday, when there was a story on the front page of the second book of the Denver Post speculating that the entire convention may be cancelled as a result of Hurricane Gustav.

But there should be no shortage of juice tonight as everyone here is pumped up to see Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin address the convention tonight at the Xcel Center.

Anyway, here are a few pictures from around the area, and we'll try to get more to you before this thing wraps up on Thursday.

Bernie AugustineThe exterior of the Xcel Center in St. Paul.

Bernie AugustineCNN again has a large presence at the Convention, this time right next door to the Xcel.

Bernie AugustineThe Alaska delegation got some attention for something other than Sarah Palin on Tuesday night.

Bernie AugustineFox News has a prime spot right at the front of the Xcel center, and had people handing out hats on the way to the security checkpoints.

Bernie AugustineDoes this style of shirt look familiar?

Bernie AugustineMuch like in Denver, security checkpoints have been largely a stress-free occasion.